Jazz Legacy
SRI, 2018
8/10
A rising jazz pianist and songwriter who takes inspiration from Oscar Peterson, Alberto Pibiri is in fine company here, as Paul Gill holds down bass and Paul Wells sits behind the drum kit. With a small handful of other collaborators, too, Jazz Legacy brings us 10 expertly crafted jazz tunes.
“For Oscar” starts the listen with jumpy keys and shuffling percussion in the upbeat and dance flavored setting, and “Walkin’” follows with a more subdued approach as Adrian Cunningham’s clarinet solo adds much to the dreamy delivery.
In the middle, “New Bossa” brings a fuller landscape of piano, drums and tenor saxophone prowess from Cunningham, while “Kiss Kiss” flows with a swift tempo and incredible clarinet work. “Be Free”, an album highlight, then offers soft and expressive vocals from Sheila Jordan on the agile and heartfelt ballad.
Near the end, “For Sure” is a playful duet between Jordan and Jay Clayton that actually uses no words as both scat instead, and “It’s Me” ends the listen with just Pibiri’s piano skills in the eloquent and glorious finish.
Now a New York resident, Pibiri was born and raised in Italy where he studied classical and jazz music. Though Jazz legacy is an early release in his career, it certainly proves that Pibiri has the chops to become a name as recognizable as his heroes.
Travels well with: Al Gold- Al Gold’s Paradise; Denise Mangiardi- Brown Book